R# Senior Design Manager / Design Lead – Major Education Project
Location: Cardiff
Salary: Competitive + excellent benefits
Sector: Construction / Education / Major Projects
The Opportunity
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Senior Design Manager / Design Lead to take a pivotal role on a large-scale education project in Cardiff, valued at approximately £100m. This is a high-profile, technically complex scheme delivered by a leading Tier 1 contractor, offering long-term stability and the chance to influence a landmark development in South Wales.
You will act as the Design Lead, managing the full design lifecycle from pre-construction through to delivery, ensuring design excellence, compliance, and coordination across multiple disciplines.
Key Responsibilities
1. Lead and manage the design process on a major education project from RIBA Stage 2 through to completion
2. Act as the single point of contact for all design-related matters, coordinating internal teams, consultants, and stakeholders
3. Manage and challenge architects, engineers, and specialist designers to ensure buildability, value, and programme alignment
4. Ensure compliance with statutory regulations, planning conditions, and employer’s requirements
5. Drive design coordination using BIM and digital design tools, ensuring clash-free and coordinated outputs
6. Manage design risk, change control, and technical queries
7. Chair design workshops and progress meetings, producing clear reports and action plans
8. Support procurement, construction, and commissioning teams with technical input
9. Promote best practice in health & safety, sustainability, and quality
Requirements
10. Proven experience as a Senior Design Manager, Design Manager, or Design Lead on large construction projects
11. Strong background in education, healthcare, or complex public-sector projects
12. Experience working for a Tier 1 or major main contractor
13. In-depth knowledge of the UK construction and design process, including D&B contracts
14. Strong understanding of BIM (Level 2), technical compliance, and design coordination
15. Excellent stakeholder management and leadership skills
16. Degree-qualified in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related discipline (or equivalent experience)
17. Chartered status (RIBA, CIOB, ICE, or similar) desirable but not essential
What’s on Offer
18. Opportunity to lead a £100m flagship education scheme
19. Long-term, career-defining role on a major project in Cardiff
20. Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
21. Collaborative, professional working environment with clear progression opportunities
Apply
If you are a Senior Design Manager or Design Lead looking to take ownership of a prestigious education project in South Wales, this role offers scale, challenge, and long-term opportunity.